Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup
A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this season had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.
But, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.
His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.
A Stunning Revival
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.
Yet, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.
His six-game scoring run sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.
And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Purple Patch?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.
Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.
International Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited discussions of an England return.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.
Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.
"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Fierce Rivalry
However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.
"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.
"I think it might hinge on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."